Only two sites in Cumbria have so far come forward to express an interest in having the site constructed on their land, but the Government will make the final decision on its location.

While that is decided scientists and engineers within the Radioactive Waste Management Directorate (RWMD), part of the NDA, are considering all of the issues created by increased nuclear waste.

The RWMD's managing director, Bruce McKirdy, said: "We are sometime away from construction and operation of a geological disposal facility, but our work also supports the Government's site selection process.

"This allows us to provide as much information as possible to those communities who are interested in potentially hosting a facility."

If the facility was given the go-ahead it could be operational by 2040 and would remain it used until it was filled with radioactive waste.

Mr McKirdy added: "We realise our plans are at the very early stage of this programme and that implementation is dependant on the successful working in partnership with potential host communities and with UK Government."